The Leading Logic In Sports Handicapping

CLEVELAND (AP) - On the eve of their final exhibition game, the Browns had denial turn into reality.

They won't have star wide receiver Josh Gordon at all this season, and it's time to figure out how they're going to replace all he gives them.

Gordon's indefinite suspension for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy was upheld on Wednesday, leaving the Browns (0-3) without their top playmaker. That's devastating for Cleveland's offense, which has struggled during the preseason and enters Thursday night's game against the Chicago Bears looking to gain some confidence.

Quarterback Brian Hoyer will start and is expected to play most of the first quarter as Cleveland's first-team offense tries to get its act together.

The Bears (2-1) are hoping for a better performance on defense after being routed 34-6 by the Super Bowl champion Seahawks last week.